After Billy Donovan stepped down from his role as the head coach of the Chicago Bulls, he garnered attention from an Eastern Conference playoff contender in the Orlando Magic.
As of Friday, May 29, Donovan is no longer in the running for the Magic’s coaching position. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the San Antonio Spurs assistant Sean Sweeney is set to take on the job.
Shams Charania’s initial report on X: BREAKING: The Orlando Magic are finalizing the hire of San Antonio Spurs associate coach Sean Sweeney as the franchise’s new head coach, sources tell ESPN. Sweeney broke into NBA coaching in 2011 and now lands the Magic head job as a top rising candidate.
Was Billy Donovan Close To Joining The Magic?
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 09: Head Coach Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls instructs his team against the Brooklyn Nets in the first half at Barclays Center on February 09, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Evan Bernstein/Getty Images)
Donovan was likely a top-three candidate for the Magic.
According to Jake Fisher of The Stein Line, the Magic interviewed three candidates. Sweeney, Donovan, and Jeff Van Gundy had the chance to state their case to take over for Jamahl Mosley, who was let go after a first-round exit in the playoffs.
What’s Next For Donovan?
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 22: Head coach Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls reacts against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on March 22, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
The veteran head coach had plenty of options this offseason.
For starters, the Bulls didn’t intend to part ways with Donovan. After signing the head coach to an extension last summer, the Bulls had every intention of continuing to roll with Donovan in charge.
Even when it was becoming clear that Donovan no longer wanted to coach the team, he was rumored to have a front office position offered. Donovan clearly turned the opportunity down.
A move back to college to coach the University of North Carolina was also denied. After Donovan avoided the NCAA route, the Tar Heels hired Michael Malone.
Outside of Orlando, Donovan doesn’t have another opportunity lined up at the moment. With the Magic finding their guy, just two other teams are in the hunt for a new head coach, along with Chicago.
The Portland Trail Blazers are trying to decide if they will continue to roll with Tiago Splitter or find a replacement candidate. The Dallas Mavericks just joined the party after shockingly cutting ties with Jason Kidd. There are opportunities for Donovan, but the Magic job is a big loss for the ex-Bulls leader.